CIVETAN   23983
CENTRO DE INVESTIGACION VETERINARIA DE TANDIL
Unidad Ejecutora - UE
capítulos de libros
Título:
Major Histocompatibility Complex-associated resistance to infectious diseases: the case of Bovine Leukemia Virus infection
Autor/es:
ESTEBAN EDUARDO NESTOR; GUTIERREZ SILVINA ELENA; JULIARENA MARCELA ALICIA; LÜTZELSCHWAB CLAUDIA MARIA
Libro:
Trends and Advances in Veterinary Genetics
Editorial:
InTech Open
Referencias:
Lugar: Rijeka; Año: 2016; p. 115 - 142
Resumen:
The MHC is a polymorphic gene cluster of about 150 genes, present in all vertebrates. Many of these genes contribute to immunity. Particularly, MHC encoded class I and II molecules, which are typically highly polymorphic and polygenic, are central in defining the specificity of the adaptive immune response. Among the diversity of genes associated to disease resistance, Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes are particularly interesting as they are associated with resistance and susceptibility to a wide range of diseases, some of which produce important economic losses in livestock. Enzootic Bovine Leukosis is an infectious disease caused by the retrovirus Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV), with an important economic impact, mainly in dairy herds. In this chapter, MHC-associated genetic resistance to BLV is revised. Certain alleles of the Bovine MHC (BoLA) class II locus have been found strongly associated with resistance to viral dissemination. Genetic selection of resistant animals emerges as a natural strategy for the control of infectious diseases, specially when there is not other alternative of control or prevention, as vaccines.Founded on this knowledge, a BLV control programme based on selection of genetically resistant cattle was designed. The proof of concept indicate that this strategy is feasible to implement in dairy herds.